Motovun
Motovun is a historic hilltop town in Istria, a peninsula of Croatia. Motovun is about 25 km northeast of Poreč. Motovun has become the most touristy of all Istrian hilltop towns, and is sometimes called the king of the hilltop villages.
Understand
editThe town was fortified in the 14th century by the Venetians, with two thick walls that surrounded the town.
In recent times, the surrounding countryside has become renowned for truffles.
Get in
editBy car
editIt is difficult to enter the village by car, as parking is extremely limited. There are, however, large parking lots located at the bottom of the hill, where you can walk uphill to the village in 15-30 minutes, or take a shuttle bus.
By bus
editThere are about 5 buses daily to Motovun from Porec. The drive takes 35 minutes but remember to plan your return carefully and check the schedule in advance.
Get around
editThe fortified village is at the top of a steep hill, which you may need to hike up partway, depending on where you parked or were dropped off. Once within the fortifications, the village is small and pedestrianized.
See
edit
- The spectacular views from the town over the surrounding countryside.
- St Stephen Church.
- Ramparts.
- Secret Garden. Small museum and recreation space. Donations encouraged.
- Mario Andretti birthplace. The famous Formula 1 driver was born in Motovun in 1940.
Do
edit- Truffle hunting
Events
edit- Motovun Film Festival: July. Late July.
(date needs updating)
Buy
editThere are various little artisan shops scattered within the town.
Eat
editTruffles are prominently featured at every restaurant in the town. The truffles are somewhat seasonal; black truffles are in during the summer, and white truffles are in towards the fall and winter.